• Source:JND
HighLights
  1. The German star reminded everyone that his journey to the top was about much more than tennis.
  2. Zverev has lived with Type 1 diabetes since childhood.
  3. Zverev’s mother refused to let the diagnosis determine her son’s future.

Alexander Zverev fulfilled a long-awaited dream by winning his first US Open title after defeating Ben Shelton in the final.

But during his emotional victory speech, the German star reminded everyone that his journey to the top was about much more than tennis.

Zverev, who defeated Shelton 6-3, 7-6(2), 5-7, 6-2, became emotional while thanking his mother, who supported him from the moment he was diagnosed with diabetes at just four years old.

ALSO READ: Alexander Zverev Crowned US Open Champion, Defeats Ben Shelton In Grand Slam Final

WATCH: Alexander Zverev’s Emotional Speech

“I want to thank one more person. Someone who never really watches my matches, but who is the most important person in my tennis life and in my life in general,” Zverev said.

He then recalled the difficult moment his family faced after his diagnosis.

"When your 4-year-old son is diagnosed with diabetes and the doctors tell you that his life and his sports practice will be very, very limited, it takes a very strong mother to walk out of that office and say: ‘My son will be wherever he wants to be. If he wants to be a tennis player, he will be a tennis player. If he wants to do something else, he will do something else. But this illness is not going to define us."

Zverev then paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother. “My mother is the most important and strongest person I know. It takes an incredibly strong woman to do what she did,” he concluded.

Zverev’s Battle With Diabetes

Zverev has lived with Type 1 diabetes since childhood. The condition means the body produces little or no insulin, a hormone needed to regulate blood sugar levels.

For athletes, managing Type 1 diabetes can be particularly demanding, as intense physical activity can affect blood glucose levels.

However, Zverev’s mother refused to let the diagnosis determine her son’s future. Her belief that diabetes would not limit his ambitions became an important part of his journey.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Aryna Sabalenka Destroys Her Racquet In Frustration After Losing US Open Final To Elena Rybakina

Zverev’s Surprise Reaction On His Win

Zverev also revealed that he initially did not realise he had won championship point.

After Shelton’s final point, the German remained at the baseline, preparing for the next serve before his team informed him that the match was over.

“In that moment, I was in the zone a lot. I didn’t hear noise at all,” Zverev said.

"I was in this kind of tunnel where I just didn't hear anything. Also, when the crowd is loud, it's impossible to hear the umpire, so I didn't hear that she said, "Game, set, match', he concluded.


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